METAL CARE

As a general rule, most jewelry is easily maintained by wiping with a soft, clean cloth to retain its luster and beauty. Avoid contact with perfume, soap, hairsprays and cosmetics.

Most silver jewelry can be cleaned with a simple solution of two parts ammonia and one part water (preferably distilled). Use a soft cloth to rub away tarnish after the piece has soaked for about one minute.

Chlorine can damage gold so avoid wearing gold jewelry in swimming pools or hot tubs, or while using chlorinated cleansing products like bleach. Remember to store metal chains flat to prevent kinking or breakage.

Rubbing alcohol can be used to clean mountings, though soap and water used with a soft brush will take care of most of your jewelry cleaning needs. Be sure that the brush is very soft when used on metal - especially gold, which can be easily scratched. Then dry and buff your jewelry with a soft cloth that won't leave behind any fuzz or threads.

NOTE: Do not use any type of chemical or alcohol cleaner with jewelry that contains pearls (real or cultured) or opals. (Refer to the Colored Gemstone section for further information about gem care.)

ULTRASONIC CLEANERS

These are machines that clean jewelry by bombarding it with sound waves. This vibration shakes off dirt, but the vibrations can also cause damage to the jewelry. The inclusions in gemstones, especially brittle stones like emeralds, can be greatly enlarged by the shaking, making the stones less attractive and less valuable. Soft gems like pearls should never be put in an ultrasonic cleaner. Because of the risk, we recommend caution when using ultrasonic cleaners.

Source: http://www.jewelrybynet.com


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